WA’s electrical safety regulator is seeking feedback from customers who have solar power installed at their properties by 30 June 2021 to understand the community’s experience with solar power systems.

The five-minute survey is focusing on safety, compliance and experiences within the state’s solar industry.

WA’s director of energy safety Saj Abdoolakhan says consumers’ perspectives were vital to build a full picture of trends, compliance and safety: “The survey results will inform Building and Energy about any issues arising with solar installations and help to improve safety.

“It also provides an opportunity for the community to engage directly with us regarding any solar-related concerns or queries.”

It focuses on solar systems, which generate power, rather than solar-powered hot water systems.

Questions include whether the installation was carried out by a licensed electrician and whether the customer received an electrical safety certificate.

Saj adds that the survey findings would help compare WA’s solar landscape with the eastern states, where some recent house fires have been linked to solar infrastructure.

“As with all types of electrical installations, Building and Energy’s focus for solar safety is ensuring that work is safe, compliant, uses components that meet relevant Australian Standards and has been carried out and certified by a licensed electrician,” he says.

“The growing popularity of solar energy in WA means it will continue to be a focus of our compliance activities, including vital information gained from this survey.”

The survey can be found here.